Cancer develops in any part of the body when cells grow abnormally and out of control. Breast cancer is a common type of cancer found mostly in women. However, men are also likely to develop breast cancer. Breast cancer symptoms may begin with lumps in both or either of the breasts. In some cases, the cancerous lumps may shift to the lymph nodes under the arms and then travel to any part of the body. The growth of cancer can take place in several regions of the breasts like-
To generate more and more awareness about this disease, breast cancer awareness month is also carried out globally from 1st October to 31st October. With alertness and the right knowledge, it can become easier to detect and remove breast cancer and save lives. In comparison to the earlier times, the fatality associated with this disease has been controlled to a great extent due to better knowledge of the signs of breast cancer, its diagnosis, and treatment.
Breast cancer is most likely to develop due to two known causes that affect other cancers as well. To get the correct treatment and stay safe, it is essential that you have breast cancer awareness. Let's start with understanding breast cancer causes-
Breast cancer begins to develop when the gland and duct cells start growing abnormally. The uncontrolled growth of cells sometimes moves to the lymph nodes. Once they enter the lymph nodes underarms, it is most likely that they may easily spread to any other body part.
Hereditary reasons play a significant role in the development of breast cancer. Around 5 to 10% of people may have a genetic history of this disease. Also, Gene 1 and Gene 2 of breast cancer may also result in ovarian or breast cancer.
Apart from the two aforementioned causes, there may be other reasons as well. It may include changes in the environment, hormones, lifestyle, etc. Also, some lesser proven causes that may cause this disease in women are - the early menstrual cycle (less than 12 years of age), late menopause, alcohol, obesity, getting pregnant after 30, never being pregnant, etc.
Breast cancer symptoms can vary depending on the type of breast cancer. Sometimes, in the early stage, there may be no signs of breast cancer. So, the wiser way is to go for a regular checkup. It helps in early diagnosis and treatment. Let's have a look at the breast cancer symptoms-
There are 5 breast cancer stages. Stage 0 begins when the cells are limited to milk ducts. Their size may exceed 2 cm in width in the later stage and start affecting the lymph nodes. In the last stage of breast cancer, the cells move to other body parts and it becomes difficult to provide treatment.
There are two types of breast cancer-
Preventing or reducing the risk of breast cancer is what people can do from their end. Some of these measures are-
| Name of the Plan | Best Features |
|---|---|
| Aditya Birla Activ Cancer Secure Plan |
|
| HDFC Life Cancer Care |
|
| Bajaj Allianz Critical Illness Insurance Plan |
|
Some of the benefits associated with the breast cancer health insurance are -
During the times of need, the plan offers you the needed financial aid. This is why patients are also able to receive better facilities. The availability of network hospitals and cashless payment are added benefits.
A health insurance plan that covers breast cancer also covers several other types of cancers. Multiple stages of cancer are also covered
A health insurance plan with breast cancer cover may also offer rider benefits. This helps in enhancing the coverage of the policy.
On the diagnosis of the breast cancer, the lump sum amount is paid by the insurance company
Tax benefits can be availed under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act
Inclusions refer to the expenses covered in an insurance policy. In the case of breast cancer, a policy may cover-
As everything cannot be included in an insurance policy, some of the expenses remain uncovered. These are-
The development of lumps, swelling around the breasts, and pain in the breasts may be the early signs of breast cancer. However, some patients may show no initial signs.
The survival rate of breast cancer depends on a number of factors such as severity, diagnostic stage, age of the patient, overall health etc.
Breast cancer can cause discomfort and tenderness in the breasts. It may cause pain when touched or pressed.
In the early stage, there may be swelling or evident lumps in the breast. In some cases, the patient may seem fine in the early stages with no such signs.
Yes, there are health insurance plans that cover breast cancer.
You can receive financial help as per the health insurance plan that you have opted for.
It may be difficult to get one after being diagnosed with cancer. However, you may get a cover for critical illness cover under your existing health plan.
